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If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with nostalgia, color, and joy, you’ll absolutely love this Cherry Salad. It’s a classic crowd-pleaser – sweet, creamy, and dotted with gorgeous cherries that make every spoonful feel celebratory. Whether you’re whipping it up for a backyard barbecue, holiday table, or a simple family treat, Cherry Salad is guaranteed to steal the show and have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cherry Salad:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

How to Make Cherry Salad

Step 1: Mix the Fruit and Milk

In a generously-sized mixing bowl, start by combining the cherry pie filling, drained crushed pineapple, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly blended – this step creates the vibrant pink base that makes Cherry Salad so inviting! Don’t be shy with your mixing; you want every bite packed with cherry and pineapple goodness.

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Scoop in the whipped topping and gently fold it through the mixture. This step transforms your Cherry Salad from a simple fruit mix into a fluffy, cloud-like treat. Patience pays off here; fold carefully to keep that airy texture intact while ensuring no streaks remain.

Step 3: Add Mini Marshmallows and Nuts

Finally, sprinkle in the mini marshmallows and, if you’re a fan of crunch, those chopped pecans or walnuts. Gently mix just until combined. The marshmallows melt slightly as they chill, giving the salad its signature pillowy texture, while the nuts add delightful contrast in every bite.

Step 4: Chill Thoroughly

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This wait is well worth it – chilling helps all the flavors meet and mingle, turning the salad from good to downright irresistible. Serve cold for the ultimate refreshing treat!

How to Serve Cherry Salad

Garnishes

Give your Cherry Salad a little extra flair! Top with a handful of additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for flavor and visual appeal. Maraschino cherries make a pop of color on individual servings, or add a swirl of whipped topping right before serving for that bakery-style finish.

Side Dishes

This sweet and creamy salad is a perfect companion to savory mains at picnics, barbecues, or even brunches. It pairs especially well with grilled meats, ham, or roast chicken, and balances out saltier sides like potato salad or chips. Some even love it alongside a simple cheese plate for contrast!

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the typical salad bowl! For parties, scoop Cherry Salad into elegant stemmed glasses or clear cups for colorful individual servings. Create mini trifles by layering it with crushed cookies or vanilla cake cubes. Or, fill a hollowed-out pineapple shell for a tropical, show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cherry Salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover tightly in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain its delightful creaminess. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to freshen the texture.

Freezing

While technically possible, freezing Cherry Salad isn’t recommended. The whipped topping and condensed milk can become grainy, and the fruit releases extra moisture, which might affect the creamy, dreamy texture that makes this salad shine. For best results, enjoy it chilled but never frozen.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Cherry Salad since it’s always served cold. If it’s been in the refrigerator for a while, just let it sit out for a couple of minutes to take off the chill before digging in. That’s all you need to enjoy it at its best!

FAQs

Can I make Cherry Salad in advance for a party?

Absolutely! Cherry Salad is a dream make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day ahead, cover, and let it chill overnight. This not only saves you time but actually improves the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together.

Is there a way to make Cherry Salad nut-free?

Yes! Simply skip the chopped nuts in the recipe. Every other ingredient stays just as delicious, and the salad loses none of its signature texture or flavor — plus, it’s safe for anyone with nut allergies.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Fresh cherries are lovely, but cherry pie filling is what gives this salad its distinct flavor and sweetness. If you prefer fresh, pit and chop the cherries, then toss them with a little sugar and let them macerate to release their juices. Mix with a bit of cherry or raspberry jam for extra body.

Will homemade whipped cream work instead of store-bought topping?

You can swap in homemade whipped cream if you like, but be aware that it can deflate faster than processed whipped topping. For best results, stabilize homemade cream with a little powdered sugar and whip until thick and fluffy.

Is this Cherry Salad suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! All the main ingredients in Cherry Salad are vegetarian-friendly. Do check your marshmallows, as some brands use gelatin; opt for a vegetarian or vegan marshmallow if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you love simple recipes that deliver big smiles, Cherry Salad is an absolute must-try. It’s easy, joyful, and always a hit at the table. So grab your spoon, share it with friends and family, and watch how quickly it disappears — you might just find yourself making a double batch next time!